. >>> last week the nationals decided not to offer pitcher edwin jackson a $13.3 million qualifying offer. that means they get nothing if he's to go elsewhere. well, yesterday general manager mike rizzo explained why. saying he liked the free agents currently on the market better than jackson and didn't want to get locked in. talk about honesty. >>> as a quick look at sports this morning. i'm kristen berset. have a great thursday. >>> that nor'easter is causing travel problems across the country. the story is coming up. >> uh-huh. if you're headed to the northeast especially. plus elections, they're behind us now. jessica doyle has spoken on area politicians who are now turning their attention to avoiding the fiscal cliff and what it could do negatively to our economy. monika? >> southbound 270 the lanes are open, no issues to report. 109 to 121, and down to the split. more news, weather and traffic coming up at 5:30. you're watching 9news now. >>> good morning, happy thursday. welcome back to 9news now. i'm andrea roane. >> and i'm mike hydeck, do you feel lucky because you should. espec